[Electrical stunning of pigs intended for slaughter(author's transl)]

The present situation in electrical stunning of pigs intended for slaughter is described. The methods permitted by law are reviewed. In addition, the current situation which is marked by many imperfections, is discussed. These imperfections are due to inadequate awareness of the fact that the condition of the animal to be slaughtered is an important factor but also to matters closely related to the increasing economics of scale which are being adopted in pig slaughter-houses. Methods of restraining pigs at the time of stunning, the stunning apparatus (which often receives scant attention) and the interval between stunning and sticking are discussed. Studies in progress or being initiated in the Netherlands are reviewed; as a result of these studies, legal requirements may acquire that significance which they can be expected to have.